Safari in Northern Highlands
Discover Ethiopia's majestic northern peaks, including the iconic Simien Mountains, and the cultural and natural richness around Lake Tana.
Northern Highlands Parks Map
Explore safari parks across Northern Highlands
Northern Highlands Safari Parks
Explore safari parks in Northern Highlands
Alatish National Park
Located in the western lowlands bordering Sudan, Alatish National Park is characterized by its savanna woodlands and riverine forests. It's a relatively new park with potential for large mammal viewing, including elephant, lion, leopard, and various antelope species, though infrastructure is still developing.
Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve
Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Mahbere Silasie Community Conservation Area
Mahbere Silasie Community Conservation Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Simien Mountains National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Simien Mountains are renowned for their dramatic landscapes of jagged peaks, deep valleys, and precipitous cliffs. It's a crucial stronghold for several endemic species, including the iconic Walia ibex, Gelada baboon, and Ethiopian wolf, offering unparalleled trekking and wildlife viewing opportunities in a stunning alpine environment.
ቃፍታ ሸራሮ ብሄራዊ ፓርክ
ቃፍታ ሸራሮ ብሄራዊ ፓርክ is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Compare Parks in Northern Highlands
Side-by-side comparison of safari parks in Northern Highlands
| Park | Area | Wildlife | Lodges | Crowds | Malaria | Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simien Mountains National Park | 412 km² | 196 | - | Quiet | Moderate | SHC (93km) |
| Alatish National Park | 3 km² | - | - | Very Quiet | Low | DNX (68km) |
| Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve | - | 292 | - | Very Quiet | Low | BJR (3km) |
| Mahbere Silasie Community Conservation Area | - | - | - | Very Quiet | Low | ETE (62km) |
| ቃፍታ ሸራሮ ብሄራዊ ፓርክ | - | 166 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | HUE (57km) |
24 species recorded in Northern Highlands7 threatened
We find the Northern Highlands to be a landscape of unparalleled grandeur, where the sheer scale of the mountains truly takes your breath away. The air is crisp and thin, carrying the scent of wild thyme, and the views from the escarpments, particularly at sunset, are sensational, painting the valleys in hues of orange and purple. We recommend taking your time to acclimatize and truly immerse yourselves in the dramatic vistas, perhaps spotting a gelada baboon troop grazing on the steep slopes. This is a place where nature's raw power is on full display, feeling both ancient and incredibly vibrant.
Terrain & Altitude
Rugged, dramatic mountain ranges characterized by deep valleys, towering peaks, and extensive escarpments.
1,800-4,550m above sea level
Vegetation
A mosaic of afro-alpine moorlands, montane grasslands, heather forests, and relict juniper and olive woodlands.
Water Sources
The vast expanse of Lake Tana dominates the southern part of the region, while numerous seasonal and perennial rivers carve through the mountains, feeding waterfalls like the Blue Nile Falls.
Unique Features
The spectacular Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boast dramatic escarpments and are home to several endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.
While flying into Bahir Dar or Gondar is the most practical approach, we always advise arranging your onward transfer in advance. The roads can be demanding, and having a reliable 4WD with an experienced driver is key to navigating the dramatic landscapes of the Northern Highlands safely and comfortably.
Nearest Airports
Bahir Dar Airport (BJR)
175km / 3hr drive to Lake Tana area
Daily connections from Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines
Gondar Airport (GDQ)
110km / 2hr drive to Simien Mountains National Park entrance
Daily connections from Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines
Bush Airstrips
Driving Routes
From Addis Ababa
A scenic but long drive. The road quality varies, with significant stretches of good tarmac interspersed with rougher sections. We recommend breaking the journey in Debre Markos or Bahir Dar.
From Gondar
This route takes you into the heart of the Simien Mountains. The road is mostly paved initially but becomes a winding, sometimes challenging, gravel track as you ascend. A 4WD vehicle is essential, especially during the rainy season.
Temperature
25.3°C
78°F
Rainfall
0 mm
Dry season
Humidity
33.9%
Sunshine
10.9 hrs/day
Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API
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